Winter

I will probably take this back in two months, but I am glad winter has finally arrived in New England. For the last few months I was petty confused about whether or not to fish. Sounds like a silly thing to say, but I think my reasons are sound. Like many, I was expecting winter a bit sooner though just as suddenly as it actually arrived. Imagine, then, how bad the fishing is likely to get if there's a shift in weather that lasts longer than a passing cold front. That's New England, and granted we may be more likely to have a few thaws throughout the winter than other areas are likely to experience, but few would argue that when winter arrives here it seems to have made up its mind. This is perhaps the worst part of living in New England, the stubbornness of its winters. Often we experience low temperatures in the 40's right through much of June, though it is often possible for us to have some days in the 60's and 70's in May. But given that our fishing season typically lasts little more than six months it would seem silly to squander any opportunities to get out and fish. That said, I did get out a few times this month, and I expect they're my last of the year. The novelty of fishing while there's snow on the ground is definitely on my mind, and I'm sure the opportunity will present itself, since we're supposed to warm up slightly into the 40's next week. Ice-in is still not quite here, but most water temps are in the low 40's, nearly as cold as the air. However, at what point does fishing really become less a matter of fun and more of a chore? Last time I went out I was pretty cold but willing to deal with it. But it was also about 45-50 outside, not the 27 it is as I write this. And I could still see fish moving around a bit, and nearly got a pickerel to bite an in-line spinner. I doubt very much they'll want to do anything, never mind chase a lure. And I might not want to cast one, for that matter.